Galaxyland and World Water Park (Edmonton, Alberta, Canada)

Best for: age 3 and up

West Edmonton Mall, site of the world’s largest indoor amusement park, combines thrill rides, a water park, sea lion show, aquarium, ice rink and mini golf, not to mention 800-plus shops, all under one atrium. Mindbender, a triple looping roller coaster, the biggest indoor ride of its kind, headlines Galaxyland, West Ed’s collection of 25 rides. Classic kicks like bumper cars and swings get amped up to frighten, but a series of intermediate and beginner rides such as a swinging Spanish galleon and a merry-go-round make the mall suitable for all ages. World Water Park, a separate admission attraction with rates equivalent to Galaxyland, is five acres of water slides, hot tubs, rapids and wave pools.

Details: http://www.westedmall.com/, 780/444-5308, day passes from $20-$27, 4-member family pass $70. At Galaxyland on Wednesdays, fees drop to $9.95 per person.

The Park at Mall Of America (Minneapolis, MN)

Best for: age 3 to 12

The massive Mall of America on the outskirts of Minneapolis is known both for the shopping and for the carnival in the mall atrium. Camp Snoopy, the largest indoor theme park in the US, operates 30 indoor attractions including roller coasters, a carousel, bumper cars, Ferris wheel and a log ride, all themed on Charles Schultz’s Peanuts cartoon characters. The thrills are mild compared to parks specializing in rides, so older teens may not be interested. But additional family rides and kiddie rides ¬ accessible to those under three feet tall ¬make the outing ideal for toddler to tween ages. A petting zoo and game arcade and rock climbing help provide variety.

Details: http://www.campsnoopy.com/, 952/883-8600, day passes $25, annual passes $80-$100.